Books spark the imaginations of children and change their lives as they read them. However, with libraries across the nation slowly disappearing and the inability of many families to afford books, many children have no access to books, especially those in under-served communities.
That’s why the Kiwanis Literacy Club of Southern California stepped in to bring their Be a Book Hero™ service project to children in Pacoima, CA. Through the help of a club grant from the Kiwanis Cal-Nev-Ha Foundation, the club was able to build and install book boxes in the San Fernando Housing Project, one of the lowest income areas in Los Angeles.
The club exceeded their goal, installing six boxes throughout the housing project, with two more boxes to be installed in the near future. More than 1,200 books were labeled and placed in the boxes for children in the community to keep and share with their peers. Books were also distributed to families at back-to-school events.
“Literacy is the ultimate game changer for society,” shared Jean Chadwick, club president. “We have witnessed a dramatic positive change within communities once plagued by drugs and gangs in inner Los Angeles. Not only do Book Boxes create a strong sense of connectedness…but children are introduced to literacy in a fun and creative way.”